The holiday season is a time for celebration, joy, and creating memories with loved ones. While it’s easy to get caught up in the holiday rush, you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the festive season. Here are some fun and affordable holiday activities that can bring holiday cheer to you and your family without stretching your budget.

1. Host a Holiday Movie Marathon

One of the easiest of holiday activities and coziest ways to spend a winter evening is by hosting a holiday movie marathon. Whether you’re a fan of classic films like It’s a Wonderful Life or newer favorites like Elf, this activity is always a hit so make it extra special by:

• Setting up a cozy viewing area with blankets and pillows.
• Preparing popcorn, hot cocoa, or holiday-themed snacks.
• Inviting friends and family to share in the fun.

You can even ask everyone to dress in their comfiest pajamas or holiday sweaters for added holiday spirit.

2. Go on a Festive Light Tour

One of the most magical parts of the season is seeing how people decorate their homes and neighborhoods with dazzling lights. Holiday light tours can be a fantastic, free activity that the whole family can enjoy. Here’s how to make it even more memorable:

• Create a list of the best-decorated streets or houses in your area.
• Prepare a thermos of hot cider or cocoa to take along.
• Bring a camera to capture the most impressive displays.

If you want to make it extra fun, turn it into a scavenger hunt by looking for specific decorations like reindeer, snowmen, or Santa Claus.

3. DIY Holiday Decorations

Creating your own holiday decorations can be a rewarding and budget-friendly activity. Plus, homemade decorations add a personal touch to your home. Here are a few DIY ideas to try:

• Paper Snowflakes: Grab some white paper and scissors to make beautiful, intricate snowflakes that can be taped to windows or hung from the ceiling.
• Mason Jar Candle Holders: Decorate mason jars with paint, ribbon, or glitter and place candles inside for a cozy glow.
• Salt Dough Ornaments: Mix flour, salt, and water to create salt dough that you can shape into ornaments, bake, and then paint for a festive touch.

Creating decorations with family or friends makes the holiday season feel even more meaningful and brings out everyone’s creativity.

4. Host a Cookie Exchange Party

Cookie exchange parties are not only fun but also allow everyone to enjoy a variety of treats without doing all the baking. Here’s how to organize one:

1. Invite friends and family to bring a dozen (or more) of their favorite homemade cookies.
2. Set up a festive table with holiday decorations for everyone to display their cookies.
3. Make sure each guest takes home a mix of different treats to enjoy over the holiday season.

This party idea is simple, inexpensive, and perfect for the holiday season, plus, everyone gets to go home with a delicious assortment of goodies!

5. Create a Holiday Playlist and Have a Dance Party

Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a dance party to your favorite seasonal tunes. Spend some time curating a playlist with classic and modern holiday songs that everyone loves. Then, clear a space, invite friends or family, and dance like nobody’s watching!

• You can even add some holiday accessories like Santa hats, elf ears, or sparkly garlands.
• Consider making a simple DIY photo booth with a festive backdrop for some memorable photos.

Whether it’s dancing to Jingle Bell Rock or the latest holiday hits, this activity guarantees smiles and laughter.

6. Give Back to the Community

The holidays are a wonderful time to spread kindness and generosity. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to make a difference. Here are a few meaningful ways to give back during the holiday season:

• Volunteer: Look for local charities or shelters that need extra help during the holidays.
• Create Care Packages: Gather friends to assemble small care packages with essentials for those in need, like toiletries, gloves, and snacks.
• Write Holiday Cards: Bring cheer to seniors in nursing homes or hospitals by writing thoughtful holiday cards.

These simple acts of kindness can be rewarding and can make the season brighter for everyone involved.

7. Have a Board Game or Puzzle Night

If you want screen-free holiday activities that’s still loads of fun, consider having a board game or puzzle night. Many families have board games or puzzles collecting dust, and the holidays are the perfect time to bring them out. Here’s how to set it up:

• Gather a variety of games that everyone can enjoy, from classic games like Scrabble and Monopoly to holiday-themed ones.
• Add festive touches, like holiday-themed snacks and drinks.
• If you have a large group, set up different tables so people can choose their game of preference.

This simple activity is a fantastic way to spend quality time together without spending any money.

8. DIY Gifts Make Great Holiday Activities

Handmade gifts are a thoughtful and affordable way to spread holiday cheer. They’re perfect for friends, family, and even neighbors. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Hot Cocoa Kits: Layer hot cocoa powder, marshmallows, and chocolate chips in a mason jar and tie with a festive ribbon.
• Scented Candles: If you have candle-making supplies, create personalized scented candles for friends.
• Photo Albums or Scrapbooks: Gather favorite photos and memories and arrange them in a scrapbook to give to loved ones.

DIY gifts are not only more personal but also cost-effective, making them perfect for the holiday season. Just think about things that interest you and look online for ways to create gifts.

Our site is filling up with other make at home projects which make great holiday activities.

9. Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is a classic holiday activity that can be a lot of fun for all ages. Many local rinks offer affordable rates or even free admission on certain days, making it a budget-friendly outing. Even if you’re new to skating, falling and laughing with friends or family can create wonderful memories. Just be sure to dress warmly, bring gloves, and maybe finish off with a cup of hot cocoa to warm up afterward!

The holiday season is about making memories, not emptying your wallet. From hosting cozy movie nights to making meaningful DIY gifts, there are countless holiday activities to enjoy the festivities without overspending. Whatever you decide to do, remember that the best part of the holidays is the time spent together with loved ones. So grab a mug of hot cocoa, play some holiday tunes, and make this season unforgettable!

By focusing on simple, heartfelt holiday activities, you can make this holiday season a memorable one without the stress of holiday expenses. Whether you’re crafting, baking, or giving back, these activities bring the true spirit of the season to life.